Central Michigan University

Frequently Asked Questions

1. WHY 5,300 SEATS?
   The combination of need and cost dictates this number. With 5,300 seats, we can take advantage of the structural integrity of the current building and enhance it with new, more comfortable and retractable seating. Considering our attendance figures for athletic contests, special events, and graduation, 5,000-plus seats will provide reasonable capacity for the university while maintaining an exciting and intimate atmosphere.
2. WHY IS THIS PROJECT IMPORTANT?
   The current complex does not complement CMU’s progressive momentum and vitality. The arena is poorly set up to impressively host our primary indoor campus events. It lacks adequate amenities such as restrooms, concessions, first aid station, quality sound system, comfortable seating, and air conditioning.
3. HOW WILL THIS BENEFIT THE ENTIRE CAMPUS COMMUNITY?
   This facility will allow Central Michigan University’s Campus Life, Student Life, and University Events to bring in concerts, shows, and speakers that are categorized on a big production scale. These events will be enjoyed by the entire campus and surrounding community. Also, construction of the front entry atrium will beautify the facility and help build campus pride.
4. HOW WILL THE PROJECT BENEFIT THE CITY AND REGION?
   This facility will be an attractive venue for trade shows and weekend youth court tournaments. These events will attract people from near and far for extended stays, boosting the regional economy with increased traffic in hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and more.
5. WILL ADDITIONAL PARKING BE PART OF THE PROJECT?
   The current project scope does not call for more parking. However, a parking plan will be developed to assist event patrons in accessing the facility. If additional funds are raised or become available, officials will research the feasibility of increasing permanent parking.
6. WHY IS THE UNIVERSITY OR STATE NOT FUNDING THIS PROJECT?
   With declining state appropriations, the university does not have the cash reserves or operating budget to fund a project of this magnitude, and only academic buildings are funded by the state of Michigan.
7. WHAT ARE THE TARGET CONSTRUCTION START AND FINISH DATES?
   The initial project schedule calls for construction to commence the second quarter of 2009 and occupancy to take place in the fourth quarter of 2010.
8. WILL IT BE AIR CONDITIONED?
   Yes! This will not only make the events center a viable host for the warm and hot months of the year, but will provide much-needed relief for some of the university’s most important activities and events such as graduation and large student fairs.
9. WHY NOT BUILD A NEW FACILITY?
   Given the economic realities of the state of Michigan and the university budget, the responsible action is to renovate and expand a facility that is structurally sound and create a dynamic facility in a cost-effective approach. In addition, the facility is wonderfully positioned on campus, can utilize existing parking, and can be melded architecturally to complement the other new south-campus buildings.
10. WILL THERE BE MORE CAPACITY FOR GRADUATION, SPECIAL EVENTS, AND CONCERTS?
    Although there will not be a significant increase in capacity, each seat will have enhanced comfort and visibility. Retractable seating will allow for more flexible configurations to accommodate more people for a wider array of events. Restrooms, concessions, and access will be greatly improved with the construction, giving attendees a much more pleasant experience.
11. WHY ARE FUNDS BEING USED FOR THIS PROJECT IN TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES FOR THE UNIVERSITY AND STATE?
    Funding for the Events Center will be provided entirely by contributions, sponsorships, and other new revenue donated specifically for the project. The university’s general fund and operating budget will be preserved exclusively to support CMU’s academic mission.
12. WHERE WILL THE ATHLETIC TEAMS PRACTICE AND PLAY WHILE CONSTRUCTION TAKES PLACE?
    A construction schedule will most likely not disrupt the competition schedules of men’s and women’s basketball, wrestling, and gymnastics. The volleyball team may need to compete off-site for one season. Other options under consideration if this favorable schedule does not work out include utilizing Finch Field House in a retro season for each sport or using off-campus sites for practice and contests. The final decision will be predicated on costs and minimizing the effects on CMU teams in every way possible.